Maestro of Shehnai and Bansuri – Pandit Rajendra Prasanna in a Soulful Conversation with Vatika Singh, CSR Times
In the sacred city of Banaras, where music flows like the Ganga itself, was born a legacy of sound, devotion, and discipline. Carrying forward the glorious tradition of Indian classical music, Pandit Rajendra Prasanna ji is not just a master of the Shehnai and Bansuri, but a torchbearer of a heritage rooted in Riyaz, humility, and spirituality. In this exclusive interview, he reflects on his journey, the timelessness of Indian music, and his hopes for Viksit Bharat 2047.
Your musical journey began in Banaras. How did the city and your family tradition inspire you?
The atmosphere in my house was naturally musical. When you’re born into such an environment, you are unknowingly drawn towards music. I started learning Shehnai at the age of 4 or 5, and Bansuri when I turned 10. It all came very organically. It’s a khandaani parampara (family tradition). Just like a doctor or an engineer wishes their child to follow in their footsteps, musicians too hope their children carry forward the art. That’s what my father and grandfather wished for me and now it’s what I wish for the next generations.
You are proficient in both the flute and the Shehnai, something very rare. What inspired you to master both instruments?
It all started at home. I used to watch and listen to my father while he taught his shagirds (students). Initially, I was interested in playing film songs on the flute, but my father saw potential and began formally training me. From there, I committed myself fully to Riyaz.
In Indian classical music, nothing can replace Riyaz. It’s more important than just learning. Even today, I advise my students to practice for at least one hour daily. It improves your breathing, helps your fingers flow smoothly over the flute, and strengthens your foundation. During COVID, many flutists remained unaffected because their lungs were strong due to years of rigorous practice.
Your grandfather and father were renowned artists. How do their teachings reflect in your music today?
Our family was originally known for Shehnai, but my father introduced the flute into our lineage. Now, my son, grandson, and students are all playing the Bansuri.
The way my grandfather and father taught, it had a charm, a magic. They inspired through their passion. A true guru, if dedicated and methodical, will always shape a successful student. That legacy continues in my teaching style today.
Indian classical music has a rich and ancient tradition. How are you contributing to carrying it forward in today’s world?
We are playing, teaching, and performing. That’s the way forward. I never force my students to follow a particular Gharana; they are free to explore any style they connect with, be it classical or Bollywood. What I do insist on is Riyaz.
My mantra is: “Jo karega Riyaz, wahi karega Raaj.” That’s the truth of any art form.
You’ve performed across the world. How do international audiences receive Indian music and culture?
The love and respect abroad can be overwhelming. Many people there listen to Indian classical music as a form of meditation. Their applause, their silence during performances,it all gives us a lot of energy.
Legends like Pt. Ravi Shankar Ji, Ustad Bismillah Khan Sahab, and Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia have already created a wonderful image of Indian music worldwide. Even if foreigners don’t understand Indian Raag or Taal, they appreciate good music and same appreciation given by Indians to Western music.
Young people today are more drawn to pop and Western music. How do we keep Indian classical music relevant for them?
It’s our responsibility to present our music in a way that brings Anand (joy) to listeners. If people enjoy it, they will naturally be more inclined to learn and pass it on to their children.
Unfortunately, in many places in India, classical music doesn’t get the importance it deserves. While light music is widely popular, classical music has a unique dignity. We need to reintroduce that to the youth in an engaging way.
What role should the government and institutions play in promoting our art and culture?
Organizations like Sangeet Natak Akademi, ICCR, and the Ministry of Culture are doing good work. But we still struggle with how to present classical music effectively.
Currently, the entire burden lies on the artist. For instance, classical performances are mostly limited to channels like DD Bharati. But we need to make them more engaging and accessible so that wider audiences, especially the youth, take interest.
You’ve been with the National School of Drama (NSD) for decades. How has theatre enriched your music?
I was associated with NSD for over 38 years. Working there taught me so much,not just about music, but about different art forms like theatre music, film music, folk, and of course, classical.
Collaborating with top directors expanded my understanding and also gave them deeper insight into classical music. Many NSD students picked up instruments and began learning seriously. It was a mutually enriching experience.
You’ve received many awards. Which moment stands out as the most special to you?
Every award is a blessing, but one moment I’ll never forget was performing at Royal Albert Hall with Pt. Ravi Shankar ji in 2002. When he entered, the entire audience stood and clapped for over 5 minutes. That kind of love… is beyond awards. Later I also performed and he received the Grammy Award. But honestly, the love of the audience is the biggest award for any artist.
Many believe Indian music is a spiritual practice. What would you advise today’s youth who want to pursue music as a career?
That belief is absolutely true. Even folk music requires discipline and Riyaz. If you don’t practice, you won’t progress. Respect your Guru, never stop learning, and whenever you meet a musician, try to gain some knowledge from them. That hunger to learn is what will take you far.
How do you see the future of India’s culture and heritage? What role do artists play?
An artist’s role is to perform with utmost sincerity. But also, to keep faith in God. If you have divine blessings and you stay true to your art, the world will celebrate you. It’s our responsibility to keep the tradition alive through teaching and performing with dedication.
What role will Indian art and culture play in Viksit Bharat by 2047?
Indian music was great in the past, is great now, and will continue to be great. Its only limitation is how it’s presented. But Hindustani Sangeet can never fade. Our duty is to teach, inspire, and empower the next generation. If they succeed, that success reflects the strength of the nation too.
